Autumn is with us again with the wonderful changing colours of the leaves and the soft gentle mists. Unfortunately this season can see an increase in the number of colds and respiratory problems. The days shorten, temperatures start dropping and coughs and sneezes become more common. This means that we need to consider herbs that can assist us, if we tend towards such seasonal problems.
Grindelia spp. also known as Gumweed can date its usage back to the indigenous Indians of North America. It has several beneficial uses but the one we will be looking at especially is that of unblocking congested chests and sinuses.
As an expectorant herb it relaxes the smooth muscles of the respiratory tract, it is antispasmodic, hypotensive and a bronchodilator, making it desirable to use in cases of asthma and bronchitis. It is also kind as it is demulcent, allowing it to work smoothly and gently.
Fortunately this herb can assist many respiratory conditions including colds, thick phlegm, coughs and sore throats. What’s more herbalists have used it to help more severe conditions such as emphysema and COPD. When there is really thick mucus it can be used in conjunction with Plantain.
Ayurvedic properties of Grindelia:
Hrdaya - heart tonic
Kasavasahara - assists cases of bad coughs and restricted breathing
Kushthaghna - helps skin problems
Mutrala - diuretic
Rakadhara - benefits the circulatory system
Udaraprasamana - relieves allergies
If you think that this herb may be for you please consult a professional herbalist and see what they advise. Caution is needed if you are taking allopathic hypotensive medication. Like many things, it can be toxic in high doses. For those with heart and kidney problems careful protocols should be adopted. In some cases it may be contraindicated completely. But when used judiciously, it can have wonderful results.
Grindelia spp. also known as Gumweed can date its usage back to the indigenous Indians of North America. It has several beneficial uses but the one we will be looking at especially is that of unblocking congested chests and sinuses.
As an expectorant herb it relaxes the smooth muscles of the respiratory tract, it is antispasmodic, hypotensive and a bronchodilator, making it desirable to use in cases of asthma and bronchitis. It is also kind as it is demulcent, allowing it to work smoothly and gently.
Fortunately this herb can assist many respiratory conditions including colds, thick phlegm, coughs and sore throats. What’s more herbalists have used it to help more severe conditions such as emphysema and COPD. When there is really thick mucus it can be used in conjunction with Plantain.
Ayurvedic properties of Grindelia:
Hrdaya - heart tonic
Kasavasahara - assists cases of bad coughs and restricted breathing
Kushthaghna - helps skin problems
Mutrala - diuretic
Rakadhara - benefits the circulatory system
Udaraprasamana - relieves allergies
If you think that this herb may be for you please consult a professional herbalist and see what they advise. Caution is needed if you are taking allopathic hypotensive medication. Like many things, it can be toxic in high doses. For those with heart and kidney problems careful protocols should be adopted. In some cases it may be contraindicated completely. But when used judiciously, it can have wonderful results.
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